Chapter 90: Care of the Late Preterm Infant
Sheri L. Nemerofsky, MD, Viral A. Dave, MD, Deborah E. Campbell, MD, 2016. "Care of the Late Preterm Infant", American Academy of Pediatrics Textbook of Pediatric Care, Thomas K. McInerny, MD, FAAP, Henry M. Adam, MD, FAAP, Deborah E. Campbell, MD, FAAP, Thomas G. DeWitt, MD, FAAP, Jane Meschan Foy, MD, FAAP, Deepak M. Kamat, MD, PhD, FAAP, Rebecca Baum, MD, FAAP, Kelly J. Kelleher, MD, MPH, FAAP
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Prematurity continues to be an issue of major concern. In the United States alone, preterm births account for more than 500,000 infants born each year. From 1990 to 2006, the rate of preterm birth rose dramatically to 12.8%. Fortunately, it decreased consecutively over the following 5 years to 11.72% in 2011 (Figure 90-1).1 Most premature infants, approximately 70%, are born between 34 and 36 weeks’ (34 0/7–34 6/7) gestation and are considered late preterm (LPT).
Worldwide, LPT birth rates are similar and make up the vast majority of preterm births.2...